The Best Super Bowl 2025 Commercials: Nostalgia, New Faces & A Pickleball Showdown
#SuperBowlLIX wasn’t just a big night for the Philadelphia Eagles (who dominated the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22), it was also a battle of brands. With 30-second spots going for a record-breaking $8 million, companies had to bring their A-game to win over fans of all ages—from nostalgic #millennials to sports-loving #GenXers and #TikTok-savvy #GenZers.
So, which ads scored big? According to the USA TODAY Ad Meter, these commercials connected the best with #consumers. And if there’s one key takeaway for brands, it’s this: Great advertising starts with listening to your audience.
?? 1st Place: Anheuser-Busch's Budweiser “First Delivery” – The Ultimate Underdog Story
?? Hits Boomers & Millennials Right in the Feels
#Budweiser proved why they’re the undisputed champions of #SuperBowl ads with their latest heartwarmer. A Clydesdale foal, eager to prove himself, takes matters into his own hooves after being told he’s “too little” to help with a beer delivery. When a keg falls off the wagon, he steps up and finishes the job, trotting triumphantly into a bar at the end.
This ad resonated deeply with #boomers and #millennials, who love an inspiring underdog story. Budweiser has mastered the art of emotional storytelling, and once again, they listened to their audience—proving that nostalgia and perseverance never go out of style.
?? Watch it here: Budweiser’s “First Delivery” Ad
?? 2nd Place: PepsiCo's Lay’s “The Little Farmer” – A Story of Passion & Patience
?? For Gen Z & Millennials Who Love a Heartfelt Story
Directed by Taika Waititi (Jojo Rabbit, Thor: Ragnarok), this ad follows a determined young girl who farms her own potato, nurturing it from seed to soil. The story, based on a real Wisconsin family, beautifully highlights hard work, tradition, and sustainability—themes that younger audiences care deeply about.
Lay’s knew their audience, tapping into the farm-to-table movement and values of authenticity. The result? A simple, heartfelt ad that left a lasting impression.
?? Watch it here: Lay’s “The Little Farmer” Ad
?? 3rd Place: Anheuser-Busch's Michelob Ultra’s “The Ultra Hustle” – Pickleball Gets Competitive
?? For Millennials & Gen X Who Love Sports & Comedy
领英推荐
#Pickleball has exploded in popularity, and Michelob Ultra made it even bigger. Willem Dafoe and Catherine O’Hara step onto the court, facing off against NFL legend Randy Moss, Olympic champion Ryan Crouser, and WNBA star Sabrina Ionescu. The twist? They actually win.
Michelob Ultra knew exactly how to engage sports lovers, combining humor, pop culture, and a trending sport. For Gen Xers and millennials, it was the perfect mix of relatable and ridiculous.
?? Watch it here: Michelob Ultra’s “The Ultra Hustle” Ad
?? Honorable Mentions
?? What Can Brands Learn from These Winning Ads?
The biggest takeaway from Super Bowl 2025’s best ads? #Brands that truly understand their audience win.
From Budweiser’s sentimental storytelling to Lay’s heartfelt authenticity and Michelob Ultra’s cultural relevance, these ads succeeded because they spoke to their consumers’ emotions, values, and experiences.
But how do you ensure your brand connects with your audience like this?
?? That’s where we come in. At Insights in Marketing, LLC. , we specialize in helping brands truly understand their consumers. We use real consumer perspectives combined with data-driven insights, to make sure your advertising resonates and delivers results.
?? Before you launch your next campaign, let’s talk. Because the best ads don’t just look good—they connect, engage, and drive action.
?? Ready to create ads that consumers love? Contact Insights in Marketing today!
What was your favorite Super Bowl commercial this year? Did Budweiser’s Clydesdale win you over, or are you still laughing about pickleball Willem Dafoe? Let us know in the comments! ???